In his Pentecost 17 sermon Clay Nelson explores Matthew's conflict resolution techniques for the church.

"Scholars make a compelling case that Jesus never intended to create the church. Apparently they don’t think he was that stupid to ask for that much trouble. But just two weeks ago we heard the opposite. Matthew’s gospel tells us Jesus made Peter the cornerstone on which he would build his church. While Jesus would roll his eyes at this self-serving claim, the assertion did succeed in giving Matthew’s gospel prominence over the others in the church’s eyes. That’s why it comes first in the New Testament.

This week we hear why Jesus would’ve scorned the idea of having a church. Apparently it is already in conflict. We know this because Matthew already has Jesus teaching the church conflict resolution techniques. The irony is not lost on us. An institution founded on a gospel of peace and love is rift with disagreement right from the start."

Full text at http://www.stmatthews.org.nz/nav.php?sid=448&id=872